Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales for the quarter were $4.5 billion, up 5.4% year-over-year, while earnings per share (EPS) decreased by 3.6% [30][31] - Domestic same-store sales grew by 5%, and international same-store sales increased by 8.1% on a constant currency basis [30][31] - Total EBIT was down 3.8%, impacted by foreign exchange rates and unfavorable LIFO comparisons [31][44] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic commercial sales increased by 10.7%, marking the first double-digit growth since Q2 FY 2023 [10][21] - Domestic DIY same-store sales grew by 3%, with traffic up 1.4% and average ticket growth of 1.5% [36][30] - International same-store sales faced a negative 9.2% impact due to currency headwinds, despite a solid 8.1% growth on a constant currency basis [12][38] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. DIY business showed resilience with maintenance and failure categories outperforming discretionary categories [16] - Regional performance varied, with the Northeast and Rust Belt outperforming other regions for the first time in a while [19] - Commercial sales growth was slower in the Northeast and Rust Belt compared to the rest of the country, with expectations for improvement as the year progresses [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on improving customer service and expanding its hub and mega hub store formats to drive sales growth [29][55] - Continued investment in technology and supply chain improvements is expected to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency [29][50] - The company plans to open approximately 100 international stores this fiscal year, with a commitment to accelerating store growth [26][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about sales growth momentum as comparisons become easier in the fourth quarter [25][52] - The company anticipates that inflation will stabilize, with average ticket growth expected to return to historical rates [17][65] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining gross margins and managing operating expenses in line with growth initiatives [42][53] Other Important Information - The company plans to invest approximately $1.3 billion in capital expenditures to support growth initiatives [28][29] - Free cash flow generated for the quarter was $423 million, with a strong liquidity position and a leverage ratio of 2.5 times EBITDAR [47][48] - The company repurchased $250 million of its stock during the quarter, with $1.1 billion remaining under its buyback authorization [49] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide details on tariffs and sourcing? - Management indicated that China is the primary source of imports, but efforts have been made to diversify sourcing to mitigate tariff impacts [61][63] Question: What is the outlook for inflation and pricing? - Management expects inflation to trend towards 3%, with potential pricing actions to offset tariff costs [64][65] Question: Can you discuss the impact of new distribution centers? - New distribution centers are expected to reduce supply chain costs over time, although initial startup costs may impact margins [111] Question: How is the company managing SG&A expenses? - Management emphasized disciplined investment in SG&A to support growth initiatives while managing expenses in line with sales growth [42][73] Question: What factors contributed to improved sales growth this quarter? - Management noted that the culmination of various initiatives and an improving sector backdrop contributed to better sales performance [96][99]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales for the quarter were $4.5 billion, up 5.4% year-over-year [28] - Domestic same-store sales grew 5%, while international same-store sales increased 8.1% on a constant currency basis [28] - Earnings per share (EPS) decreased by 3.6%, impacted by foreign exchange headwinds [29][45] - Total EBIT was down 3.8%, with a significant impact from foreign exchange rates [29][43] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic commercial sales increased by 10.7%, marking the first double-digit growth since Q2 FY 2023 [9][31] - Domestic DIY same-store sales grew by 3%, with traffic up 1.4% and average ticket growth of 1.5% [34] - International same-store sales faced a negative 9.2% impact due to currency fluctuations, despite a solid 8.1% growth on a constant currency basis [11][36] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. DIY market showed resilience with maintenance and failure categories outperforming discretionary categories [15] - The Northeast and Rust Belt regions outperformed other markets, indicating a positive trend due to favorable weather conditions [17] - Commercial sales growth was slower in the Northeast and Rust Belt compared to other regions, with expectations for improvement as the year progresses [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on improving customer service and expanding its hub and mega hub store formats to drive growth [22][52] - Continued investment in technology and supply chain improvements is prioritized to enhance customer experience [26][52] - The company plans to open approximately 100 international stores this fiscal year, reflecting confidence in growth opportunities outside the U.S. [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about sales trends for both DIY and commercial segments as comparisons become easier in the upcoming quarter [23][52] - The company anticipates ongoing challenges from foreign exchange rates but believes it can manage gross margins effectively [50] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining focus on execution and customer service to capitalize on growth opportunities [52][53] Other Important Information - The company plans to invest approximately $1.3 billion in capital expenditures to support strategic growth priorities [25] - Inventory per store increased by 6.7%, driven by new store openings and additional inventory investments [46] - The company repurchased $250 million of its stock during the quarter, with $1.1 billion remaining under its buyback authorization [48] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide details on tariffs and sourcing? - The primary source of imports is China, with efforts to diversify sourcing and mitigate tariff impacts through various strategies [58][60] Question: What is the outlook for inflation and pricing? - Inflation is expected to trend towards 3%, with potential tariff costs influencing average ticket growth [62] Question: How do you view the impact of tariffs on inventory and costs? - The slow inventory turnover has delayed the impact of tariffs, but the company is confident in its ability to manage costs effectively [66][67] Question: Can you discuss gross margins and SG&A expenses? - Gross margins are expected to be slightly down in Q4 due to various pressures, while SG&A expenses are being managed in line with growth initiatives [68][69] Question: What factors contributed to improved sales growth this quarter? - A culmination of ongoing initiatives and an improving sector backdrop contributed to better sales performance [95][97] Question: How are hubs and mega hubs performing? - Hubs and mega hubs are growing faster than the rest of the commercial base, contributing positively to overall sales [103][104]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported enterprise revenues of $937 million, a 1% increase compared to the prior year, exceeding guidance which anticipated a decline of approximately 1.5% [4][24] - Adjusted gross margins improved to 57.8%, gaining 180 basis points year-over-year, while adjusted operating margins were 23.8%, exceeding guidance by over 200 basis points [5][26] - Adjusted diluted earnings per share reached $3, nearly 20% above the high end of the guidance range [6][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Crocs brand revenues were $762 million, up 4% year-over-year, driven by a 5% increase in wholesale and a 3% increase in direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales [25] - Hey Dude brand revenues declined by 10% to $176 million, but DTC sales grew by 8%, indicating a recovery from previous quarters [26] - Adjusted gross margin for the Crocs brand was 60.7%, up 260 basis points, while Hey Dude's adjusted gross margin was 46.6%, down 120 basis points due to supply chain cost pressures [27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International revenue grew by 12%, with China showing over 30% growth compared to the prior year, supported by the addition of 40 new partner doors [17][25] - North American revenue was down 3% year-over-year, but performance exceeded expectations [19][25] - Western Europe also saw robust growth, particularly in France and Germany [25][78] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining competitive advantages and adapting to a volatile macroeconomic environment, including managing sourcing and cost structures in response to tariffs [6][10] - Strategic investments are being made to enhance brand relevance and expand product offerings beyond clogs, particularly in sandals [12][13] - The company aims to leverage social commerce and digital marketing to drive brand engagement and sales [16][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed caution regarding the unpredictability of the global trade environment and its potential impact on consumer demand [10][48] - The decision to withdraw guidance for 2025 was primarily due to the difficulty in predicting the financial impact of tariffs [29][30] - Despite challenges, management remains optimistic about the company's ability to generate significant free cash flow and maintain profitability [11][28] Other Important Information - The company identified an additional $50 million in cost savings for 2025 and is actively managing inventory levels [10][32] - The liquidity position is strong, with $166 million in cash and $679 million in borrowing capacity [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Comments on sustainability of gross margins and pricing opportunities - Management indicated confidence in the sustainability of gross margins due to vendor negotiations and improved efficiencies, while also acknowledging pricing as a lever to mitigate costs [36][39][41] Question: Thoughts on not guiding Q2 revenue and mitigation strategies - Management noted strong performance in April but emphasized caution in predicting future trends due to the uncertain global trade environment [45][48][49] Question: Level of marketing spend in 2025 - The company plans to maintain elevated marketing spending to engage consumers, despite the uncertain backdrop [53][54] Question: Drivers for Crocs international growth - Management highlighted brand penetration as a key driver, with significant growth opportunities in China, India, and Western Europe [75][78] Question: Impact of price increases on wholesale and DTC channels - Management stated that while they have flexibility in DTC pricing, they prefer coordinated pricing strategies across channels [84][86] Question: Current state of wholesale channel and inventory management - Management confirmed that major retailers are planning conservatively, aligning with the company's strategy to avoid excess inventory [90][91]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, worldwide revenue reached $52.4 million, a 17% increase compared to Q1 2024 [31] - U.S. revenue was $40.9 million, reflecting a 19% increase and accounting for 78% of total revenue [32] - International revenue totaled $11.5 million, an 11% increase, representing 22% of total revenue [33] - Adjusted EBITDA loss was reduced to $400,000, improving over 50% from a loss of $1.1 million in Q1 2024 [37] - Free cash flow usage decreased by 36% to $8.4 million compared to the same period last year [37] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Trauma and Deformity global revenue was $37.9 million, a 14% increase driven by trauma products and OPSB [33] - Scoliosis global revenue reached $13.7 million, a 34% increase, primarily due to increased sales of Response and ApiFix systems [34] - The T and D business grew 14%, supported by strong market share gains and prior investments in set allocation [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Over 20% of global revenue is trauma-related, which is largely non-elective, providing stability against economic downturns [12] - International growth was double-digit, but impacted by lower sales in Latin America [26] - Strong adoption trends were noted in Canada and Australia, contributing to international growth [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to execute and scale OPSB, take market share in the surgical business, and continue innovative product launches [7] - Expansion into new territories, including North Carolina, is underway, with plans for additional territories in H2 2025 [18] - The company is focused on improving profitability and cash flow while maintaining growth [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining growth and profitability trajectories despite broader economic conditions [12] - The company is increasing its full-year revenue guidance to $236 million to $242 million, representing 15% to 18% growth [12] - Management remains cautious about summer months, traditionally strong for the business, and is monitoring international markets for cash collection opportunities [50] Other Important Information - The company received five FDA approvals in 2025, including major systems that will enhance its product offerings [9] - The company is actively pursuing EU MDR compliance to launch new products in Europe starting in H2 2025 [27] - OrthoPediatrics was recognized as one of the best places to work in Indiana for 2025, reflecting employee dedication [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the strong performance in the spine business and the impact of VertiGlide? - Management noted strong growth in scoliosis, driven by high adoption rates and new accounts, with VertiGlide expected to contribute positively [45][46] Question: Why is the revenue guidance conservative despite strong performance? - Management indicated caution due to the upcoming summer months and a strategic approach to international markets to improve cash flow [48][50] Question: How does the 7D technology impact the adoption of scoliosis products? - Management confirmed that accounts with 7D technology are seeing increased adoption of scoliosis products, contributing to overall growth [58][60] Question: What is the outlook for the EU MDR and product launches? - Management expects the first approvals to focus on trauma and deformity products, which will modernize existing systems and drive market share [86][88] Question: Can you elaborate on the OPSB product launches? - Management confirmed plans for multiple launches in 2025, including products targeting pediatric hip dysplasia and innovative bracing solutions [95][97]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter revenue increased by 4% to $1.5 billion compared to the prior year, driven by a 2.7% growth in adjusted admissions and a 1.2% increase in net patient service revenue per adjusted admission [11][12] - Adjusted EBITDA grew by 2.5% to $98 million, with supply costs as a percentage of revenue declining by 60 basis points year over year [7][16] - Total cash at the end of the first quarter was $495 million, with total debt outstanding at $1.1 billion, resulting in a total available liquidity of $790 million [16][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Admissions grew by 7.6%, with inpatient surgery growth at 3.4%, while outpatient surgeries declined by 2.3% [5][12] - The growth rate of physician professional fees was 6%, down from 13% in the same period last year, indicating a moderation in cost growth [7][63] - The integration of 18 NexCare Urgent Care clinics is expected to generate additional downstream volumes in the Tulsa and Albuquerque markets [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing strong demand in its existing markets, with an average market growth rate of about 3% per year [40] - Exchange volume growth was significant, with admissions in the quarter growing by 40%, contributing to mid-single digits as a percentage of revenue [60] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its outpatient and acute care hospital footprint, supported by approximately $500 million in cash and a favorable lease-adjusted net leverage ratio of three times [4][9] - A disciplined approach to evaluating M&A opportunities is being pursued, with increased interest in the company's joint venture model from potential academic and non-profit partners [8][9] - The company aims to achieve margin expansion of 100 to 200 basis points over the next several years through operational initiatives and supply chain efficiencies [7][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the durability of demand, attributing strong volume growth to operational improvements and the strength of the markets [40] - The company reaffirmed its full-year 2025 financial guidance, indicating a solid start to the year and strong momentum [9][17] - Management noted that while payer claim denials have increased, they do not expect a significant impact compared to the latter half of 2024 [13][28] Other Important Information - The company is in the final stages of recruiting a Chief Development Officer to support its focus on M&A activities [4] - S&P upgraded the company's credit rating to B+ from B, reflecting improved net leverage and cash flow profile [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about seasonality and EBITDA decline - Management indicated that a sequential decline in EBITDA is not abnormal and attributed it to various factors including flu season impacts and timing issues [22][26] Question: Follow-up on elevated denials - Management confirmed that the increase in denials is consistent with previous trends and highlighted a slowdown in payments on clean claims [28][29] Question: Supply chain initiatives and opportunities - Management noted participation in a GPO and ongoing improvements in service line utilization as key areas for margin expansion [30][31] Question: Update on expansion initiatives - Management reported a growing pipeline for new market opportunities and emphasized the importance of strategic acquisitions [46][53] Question: New Mexico DPP program approval timeline - Management expressed hope for approval by the end of Q2, based on positive indications from state and CMS conversations [54][56] Question: Exchange volumes and payer mix - Management confirmed strong exchange growth, with admissions increasing significantly and operating in mid-single digits as a percentage of revenue [60]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated revenues for Q1 2025 totaled $96.3 million with deliveries of 710 railcars compared to $161.1 million and 1,223 railcars in Q1 2024, reflecting a planned reduction in production capacity [17][18] - Gross margin expanded to 14.9%, up 780 basis points year over year, nearly doubling from the same period last year [6][18] - Adjusted EBITDAR for Q1 2025 was $7.3 million, exceeding last year's performance despite lower revenue and deliveries [7][19] - Adjusted net income for Q1 2025 was $1.6 million or $0.05 per diluted share, compared to $1.4 million or a loss of $0.10 per share in Q1 2024 [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company booked 1,250 new railcar orders valued at approximately $141 million in Q1 2025, marking a strong start to the year [7][14] - The backlog increased to 3,337 railcars valued at approximately $318 million, indicating strong visibility into future revenue [8][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - FreightCar America achieved a market share of 27% within its addressable market, up from 8% over the last twelve months, despite lower industry-wide orders [8][15] - Total industry orders over the trailing twelve months were around 24,000 units, approximately 15,000 units below historical replacement levels, creating pent-up demand [14][15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains cautiously optimistic about railcar equipment demand over the next 24 months, supported by consistent rail traffic levels and ongoing railcar replacement cycles [11] - The operational flexibility and ability to manufacture large-scale complex fabrications tailored to customer needs are key strategic advantages [5][10] - The company plans to ramp up production significantly in the second half of 2025, converting backlog into sales [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving full-year guidance for 2025, expecting deliveries between 4,500 to 4,900 railcars and revenue of $530 million to $590 million [12] - The commercial pipeline remains robust, with ongoing discussions for additional railcar orders [11][12] Other Important Information - The company generated $12.8 million in operating cash flow, marking the fourth consecutive quarter of positive cash flow from operations [20] - Capital expenditures for Q1 totaled $300,000, with expectations for full-year capital expenditures in the range of $5 million to $6 million [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Which segments of your product suite are driving sales growth? - Management indicated that orders are being received across all segments, including covered hoppers and open-top hoppers, with a healthy mix allowing for multiple production lines to be utilized [24][25] Question: What are your considerations for putting a fifth production line into service? - The company can activate a fifth line in under 90 days with less than a million dollars in CapEx, contingent on sustained customer demand exceeding 5,200 units per year [27][28] Question: Can you differentiate your order flow from the broader industry? - Management noted that while there is some hesitancy in the industry, their order intake was the highest in 15 years, indicating strong demand for their products [37][39] Question: What is the expected quarterly delivery cadence for the rest of the year? - Q2 is expected to see a step-up from Q1, with significant increases anticipated in Q3 and Q4 to meet guidance [48] Question: Can you provide insight on gross margins and product mix? - Management confirmed that gross margins are expected to continue expanding, with fluctuations possible on a quarterly basis but normalizing over a twelve-month period [75][78]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - ITT reported record orders exceeding $1 billion in Q1 2025, a 7% increase year-over-year, with a book-to-bill ratio of 1.15 and a backlog of $1.8 billion, up 21% year-over-year [6][10] - Adjusted EPS for Q1 was $1.45, reflecting a 7% increase, and free cash flow reached a record $77 million, up more than 150% [7][22] - Operating income grew 2% on flat sales, with margins expanding by 30 basis points to 17.4% [6][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Industrial Process (IP) orders grew 14%, with a 11% organic increase, driven by large project awards [7] - Connect and Control (CCT) saw nearly 40% growth, significantly influenced by large platform awards in defense [8] - Motion Technologies (MT) achieved a margin expansion of 160 basis points, reaching nearly 20% despite foreign exchange headwinds [8][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The backlog in IP reached a record $1 billion, up 15% year-over-year, indicating strong demand despite a slight slowdown in the funnel [52] - CCT experienced over 20% growth in defense connectors, while general industrial connectors grew 4% [19] - The marine pump shipments in Svenahoy contributed to strong performance in IP, offsetting lower pump shipments [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - ITT is focusing on innovation, exemplified by the launch of Vida, which aims to revolutionize the flow industry by embedding variable speed technology into motors [11][12] - The company is maintaining its full-year adjusted guidance for 2025, despite macroeconomic uncertainties, and is committed to capital deployment through share repurchases [10][33] - ITT continues to invest in high-growth regions like Saudi Arabia and India to enhance market share [7][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in a strong second quarter, with adjusted EPS growth expected to be around 8% at the midpoint [10][29] - The company is closely monitoring the impact of tariffs, estimating a cost exposure of $50 million to $60 million for the remainder of 2025, while implementing pricing actions to mitigate this [30][101] - Management noted that the backlog remains strong, and project execution margins are improving, providing confidence in revenue growth for 2025 [52][53] Other Important Information - ITT repurchased $300 million of shares in April 2025, in addition to $100 million in Q1, reducing the share count by 4% for the year [9] - The company is targeting $500 million to $700 million in M&A opportunities for the year, indicating a healthy pipeline despite market uncertainties [41] Q&A Session Summary Question: What drove the significant increase in orders? - Management indicated that the increase was not due to pre-buying but rather strong project orders in IP, which were up 47%, and successful acquisitions [39][40] Question: What is the rationale behind the large share buyback? - The buyback was to reaffirm confidence in ITT's long-term outlook, not due to a lack of M&A opportunities [41][42] Question: How does the company view the impact of tariffs? - The company expects to offset tariff costs through pricing actions and has not seen significant customer deferrals in capital investments [30][135] Question: What is the outlook for the IP segment? - Management remains confident in IP's performance, citing a strong backlog and project execution margins that are improving [52][53] Question: How is the company addressing potential risks in Saudi Arabia? - Management reported no change in customer tone and continued growth in orders from the oil and gas sector [60][61] Question: What are the pricing trends in Motion Technologies? - The pricing cost equation remains positive, with expectations to recover fluctuations in commodity costs through customer negotiations [110]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - ITT reported record orders exceeding $1 billion in Q1 2025, a 7% increase year-over-year, with a book-to-bill ratio of 1.15 and a backlog of $1.8 billion, up 21% year-over-year [7][11] - Adjusted EPS for Q1 was $1.45, a 7% increase, and free cash flow reached a record $77 million, up more than 150% [8][22] - The company repurchased $100 million of shares in Q1 and an additional $300 million in April, reducing share count by 4% for the year [10][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Industrial Process (IP) orders grew 14%, with a 11% organic increase, driven by large project awards [8] - Connect and Control (CCT) saw nearly 40% growth, primarily due to large platform awards in defense [9] - Motion Technologies (MT) achieved a margin expansion of 160 basis points, reaching nearly 20% despite foreign exchange headwinds [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The backlog in IP reached a record $1 billion, up 15% year-over-year, indicating strong demand despite a slight slowdown in the funnel [55] - CCT experienced strong growth in defense connectors, up over 20%, while general industrial connectors grew 4% [20] - The marine pump shipments in Svenahoy contributed to strong performance in IP, offsetting lower pump shipments [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - ITT is focusing on innovation, exemplified by the launch of Vida, which aims to revolutionize the flow industry by embedding variable speed technology into motors [12][14] - The company is maintaining its full-year guidance for 2025 despite macroeconomic uncertainties, with expectations for continued cash generation and margin expansion [11][27] - ITT plans to invest in fast-growing regions like Saudi Arabia and India to capture market share [8][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in a strong second quarter, with adjusted EPS growth expected to be around 8% at the midpoint [11][29] - The company is closely monitoring tariff impacts, estimating a cost of $50 million to $60 million for the remainder of 2025, but expects to offset this through pricing actions [30][31] - Management noted that while there is some softness in the market, the backlog and project execution remain strong, providing confidence in revenue growth [55][141] Other Important Information - The company is actively pursuing M&A opportunities, with a healthy pipeline and a target of deploying $500 million to $700 million this year [42][73] - ITT's operational performance allowed for margin growth despite challenges from cost inflation and unfavorable foreign exchange [22][24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Why did orders pick up significantly? - Management indicated that the increase in orders was not due to pre-buying but rather strong project orders and market share gains from acquisitions [40][41] Question: What is the rationale behind the share buyback? - The buyback was to reaffirm confidence in ITT's long-term outlook, not due to a lack of M&A opportunities [42][43] Question: How does the company view the IP market amid potential softness? - Management acknowledged a slight slowdown in the funnel but emphasized a strong backlog and confidence in revenue growth for IP [55] Question: What are the expectations for the CCT segment regarding tariffs? - The majority of tariff impacts are expected in IP and CCT, but the company has pricing power to mitigate these effects [95][97] Question: How is the company addressing potential risks in Saudi Arabia? - Management reported no change in customer tone or spending plans in Saudi Arabia, with continued growth in oil and gas orders [63][64] Question: What is the outlook for the aerospace sector? - Aerospace orders are expected to improve in the second half of the year, with a recovery anticipated [132]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales for the quarter were $4 billion, an increase of 2.4% year-over-year, while earnings per share (EPS) decreased by 2.1% [39][62] - Domestic same-store sales grew by 1.9%, and international same-store sales increased by 9.5% on a constant currency basis [39][10] - Total company EBIT was down 4.9%, with a foreign exchange headwind impacting sales by $91 million and EBIT by $30 million [40][59] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic Commercial sales increased by 7.3%, compared to 3.2% growth in the first quarter [12][26] - DIY same-store sales were up 0.1%, with a decline of 4.3% in the last four weeks of the quarter [21][47] - Commercial sales represented 31% of domestic auto part sales and 27% of total company sales [42] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Northeast and Rust Belt regions experienced weaker performance compared to other domestic markets, particularly in the last week of the quarter [24][27] - International business saw a total of 17 new stores opened in Mexico and Brazil, with same-store sales growth of 9.5% on a constant currency basis [32][50] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving execution and delivering exceptional customer service, with plans to ramp up store growth and Mega-Hub openings [72][76] - Investments in technology and distribution capabilities are aimed at enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency [81][35] - The company expects to open around 100 international stores in the fiscal year, with a commitment to accelerating growth in international markets [33][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the macro environment has forced customers to be cautious with spending, but they remain optimistic about future sales growth due to improved execution and strategic initiatives [18][49] - The company anticipates that the second half of the fiscal year will show improved sales trends as comparisons become easier [31][90] - Management expressed confidence in the ability to maintain margins despite potential tariff impacts and inflationary pressures [119][120] Other Important Information - The company plans to invest over $1 billion in capital expenditures to support growth initiatives, including store openings and technology enhancements [37][66] - Free cash flow for the quarter was $291 million, up from $179 million in the previous year [63] - The company repurchased $330 million of its stock during the quarter, with $1.3 billion remaining under its share buyback authorization [66] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on operating expense deleverage and investments - Management highlighted investments in IT and technology that support growth in both DIY and Commercial segments, enhancing speed and productivity [81][82] Question: Impact of store growth in Mexico on profitability - Management expressed satisfaction with growth in Mexico, emphasizing disciplined investments in distribution capabilities to support the expanding store base [84][85] Question: Context of domestic comp growth and its drivers - Management attributed the 1.9% domestic comp growth to a combination of better weather, improved execution, and strategic initiatives [88][89] Question: Expectations for gross margins amid inflation concerns - Management indicated that while there may be some gross margin drag due to the acceleration of the Commercial business, merchandising margin improvements are expected to offset this [95][96] Question: Potential impact of tariffs on margins - Management stated that they intend to maintain margin profiles post-tariffs through vendor absorption, diversifying sourcing, and pricing actions [119][120] Question: SG&A investments and future normalization - Management plans to continue investing at an accelerated pace to capture market share, with expectations of normalizing SG&A growth in line with sales over time [123][124] Question: Performance of the Domestic DIFM side and market share gains - Management noted broad-based growth in the Commercial business, with expectations of gaining market share due to improved execution and strategic investments [127][128]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record fiscal Q3 revenue of $194 million, an increase of $19 million or 11% compared to the prior year [4][8] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter reached $42 million, reflecting a 14% growth year-over-year, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 21.7%, up 70 basis points from the previous year [4][9] - Adjusted net income was $25 million, with adjusted earnings per diluted share of $1.48, representing a 49% increase from $17 million or $1.07 in the prior year [9][15] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Contractor Solutions segment generated $132 million in revenue, accounting for 67% of consolidated revenue, with total growth of 14.5% year-over-year [10] - The Specialized Reliability segment saw a 3% increase in revenue to $34.6 million, with EBITDA growing 26% to $6.6 million and an EBITDA margin improvement of 360 basis points to 19.1% [11][12] - The Engineered Building Solutions segment's revenue increased by 3% to $28.8 million, with a stable book-to-bill ratio of 1:1 [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The HVACR, electrical, and plumbing end markets reported growth, while the architecturally specified building products market experienced a slight decline [10] - The company noted that existing home sales and new home sales have been down, but housing permit numbers have recently increased [58] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on sustainable growth and is actively pursuing accretive acquisitions to enhance its product offerings and market share [5][17] - The acquisition of Waterworks is expected to expand the company's distribution network and product offerings in eco-friendly drain management solutions [5][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed a favorable outlook for the macro environment, despite challenges such as higher interest rates and geopolitical uncertainties [58][62] - The company anticipates continued organic growth in the mid to high single digits, supported by recent acquisitions and market share gains [32][46] Other Important Information - The company ended fiscal Q3 with $214 million in cash and reported cash flow from operations of $12 million, a decrease from $47 million in the same quarter last year due to a tax payment deferral [13][14] - Inventory levels increased strategically to mitigate risks from potential supply chain disruptions [14][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of freight on margins and gross profit - Management acknowledged freight as a significant headwind, with a 4 to 6 month lag affecting costs, but expects pricing adjustments to help offset these increases [21][24] Question: Organic growth components - Organic growth was reported at 1.8%, with management expecting mid to high single-digit growth moving forward, driven by volume and pricing [32][36] Question: Acquisition pipeline and opportunities - Management indicated optimism regarding the acquisition pipeline, noting both small and larger acquisition opportunities are being evaluated [37][38] Question: Overall macro environment and its impact - Management remains favorably inclined towards the macro environment, expecting normal growth despite challenges, and highlighted the importance of acquisitions in driving growth [58][62]